HB487 Alabama 2011 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Joseph C. Mitchell

Democrat

Co-Sponsors

K.L. BrownKerry RichWilliam RobertsLynn GreerDan WilliamsPaul W. LeeBarry MooreWes LongRichard BaughnMac ButtramDonnie ChesteenJohn MerrillKen JohnsonJim PattersonWayne JohnsonDaniel H. BomanMike JonesElaine BeechAlan BootheThomas JacksonLesley VanceSteve HurstPatricia ToddJohnny Mack MorrowRandy DavisVictor GastonJack WilliamsHarry ShiverChad FincherAlan BakerSteve McMillanSteve ClouseDuwayne BridgesPhil WilliamsMicky HammonRon JohnsonMark Tuggle

Session

Regular Session 2011

Title

County roads, forestry harvesting operations, prior notice to county commission, limitations, civil fines, other permits, bonds prohibited, Sec. 23-1-80.1 added

Summary

HB487 would let Alabama counties require timber harvesters to file prior notice before cutting timber on unincorporated land and restrict other road-use permits, with civil fines for violations.

What This Bill Does

The bill authorizes county commissions to adopt an ordinance requiring prior written notice of timber harvesting in unincorporated areas, including tract details, routes, and buyer information. Violations can incur civil fines up to $500 per violation and require a hearing before fines are levied. It also prohibits other notices, permits, licenses, or security to use county roads for hauling forest products, unless allowed by state law, and the notice becomes effective upon filing and remains in effect until harvesting is complete, with changes reported within three business days. Filing the notice does not shield the harvester from liability for damages arising from road use.

Who It Affects

• Timber harvesters and firms operating in unincorporated areas who must file the notice and may face fines for noncompliance.
• County commissions in Alabama counties who would adopt the notice ordinance and enforce fines.
• Haulers, wood yards, and processing plants that receive or purchase timber and rely on county roads for transport, under the notice routes and safety considerations.

Key Provisions

• Authorized counties may adopt an ordinance requiring prior written notice of timber harvesting in unincorporated areas before cutting timber, to be filed with the county commission.
• Notice must cover each tract of 10 acres or more and include: a map/legal description, identified hauling routes, buyer’s name/address/phone, and filing details.
• Notice must be submitted in approved formats (in person, electronic, mail, or other approved means) to the county’s regular office and remains in effect until harvesting is completed; material changes must be reported within three business days.
• Violations may incur civil fines up to $500 per violation, with notice and a hearing prior to the levy of fines.
• Except as provided, counties may not require any other notice, permit, license, or security to use county roads for hauling forest products.
• The act repeals conflicting laws; it becomes effective on the first day of the third month after passage and governor approval.
• Compliance with the notice does not relieve liability for damages that may arise from road use.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Counties